How to Feed POA Ponies

The Pony of the Americas (POA) was first bred in 1954 from a half-Arabian, half-Appaloosa mare and a Shetland pony stallion. The breed was developed to be ridden and shown by children, so POAs, by nature, are gentle. Breed standards demand a height of between 44 and 52 inches and a coat that is spotted like that of the Appaloosa. Though POAs have an unusual look, they need to be fed in the same way as any other pony.

Things You'll Need

  • Portable equine scale or livestock scale
  • Grass or hay
  • Commercial horse pellets
  • Chaff
  • Rice bran
  • Apples
  • Carrots
  • Salt lick
  • Water
Show More

Instructions

  1. How to Feed POA Ponies

    • 1

      Weigh your POA pony with a portable equine scale or livestock scale. The amount of food it needs will depend on how much it weighs, as well as its type of diet and activity level. Your veterinarian can help you determine how much food to begin feeding your pony.

    • 2

      Give your pony plenty of roughage, such as hay and grass. These foods are good for its digestive system. The POA pony has a small stomach, so you may want to feed it small amounts of food several times a day instead of one large meal.

    • 3

      Supplement your POA pony's diet with some grains. The Pony of the Americas is often trained as a show horse, and the extra energy it expends may require extra fat content in its diet. Chaff and rice bran are two common choices for equine grain supplements.

    • 4

      Include commercial pellets in the pony's diet. There are several brands of feed available that are geared specifically toward equines. Check with your veterinarian to determine the best kind for your POA pony.

    • 5

      Feed your pony succulent foods like apples and carrots sparingly. These foods are treats for ponies. Ponies also enjoy salt licks, which can provide a needed mineral boost.

    • 6

      Provide your POA pony with plenty of fresh, clean water. Ponies can get dehydrated easily and may need to drink 5 to 10 gallons of water daily.

    • 7

      Take note of your pony's condition after starting it on its diet. If the pony is underweight or overweight, consult your veterinarian and make adjustments accordingly.